What is Your Leadership Philosophy?

If you could choose just three words to describe an ideal leader, what words would come to mind? 

And to what degree do you demonstrate those qualities in your own leadership?  In other words, do you have a leadership philosophy?

I encourage you to take some time to think about this and to journal on it.  I have, and so I wanted to share with you what I came up with.

First of all, my three words are inspirational, inclusive, learner. 

Learner:  I have always believed that true leaders are learners who are committed to continuous improvement and development for themselves and those for whom they are responsible.  Because, leadership is a responsibility which I take very seriously, and it is also a privilege.  As a result, I have invested heavily over the years in my own personal development and my intention is to share what I’ve learned and experienced with others to help them on the path.  After all, teaching what you learn helps to fully integrate it.

Inspirational:  As a leader, my goal is to inspire people to become the best version of themselves possible -- and to show up that way in their work and in their life.  In order to inspire that, I have to be a good role model and aspire to doing that myself.  I don’t believe leaders motivate others.  People are self-motivated and do things for their own reasons, in accordance with their own values and beliefs.  And that’s why being deliberate about inspiration is so important.  When you are intentional, you work to create the kind of environment where people are motivated to do their best work and to fully contribute.

Inclusive:  Being inclusive is a critical mindset for leaders. Part of creating that ideal environment for motivation is making it safe for people who have a different experience or a different point of view to bring that into the picture.  My goal is to listen and accept what people have to offer as perspective, and without judgment.  This includes encouraging people to ask questions, make suggestions, and challenge the status quo – and to be prepared to actively listen and consider their feedback and input.

As a leader, these are the qualities and characteristics that I tried to demonstrate consistently.

And sometimes, I fall short.  But having the intention – and making it explicit – allows me to get back on track.  Anyone can remember just three words.

So, what do you say?  What are your three words?  Why did you choose those and why are they important to you?  And how can you live into those words more consistently?

 #deliberateleader #leadership #learning